Alex Brundle: Red Bull’s Strategic Move to Extend Perez’s Contract
Former racing driver and F2/F3 commentator, Alex Brundle, has expressed his support for Red Bull’s decision to extend Sergio Perez’s contract, calling it a strategic move for stability in the team. Despite doubts surrounding Perez’s future in Formula 1 due to inconsistent performance, Red Bull has opted to keep him as Max Verstappen’s teammate until at least the end of 2026.
Brundle believes that Perez’s track record of podium finishes earlier in the year justifies the contract extension and highlights the importance of stability as the team prepares for the upcoming technical generation in 2026. He acknowledges the challenges of competing alongside a driver like Verstappen, stressing the difficulty of matching his level of performance.
While there were speculations about other potential candidates for Red Bull’s second seat, including Yuki Tsunoda and Carlos Sainz Jr., Brundle suggests that the team’s decision to retain Perez was based on thorough evaluation of all options available. He emphasizes the complexities of the competitive landscape in Formula 1 and the unique challenges that come with partnering with a top-tier driver like Verstappen.
Despite a disappointing performance in his first competitive session after the contract extension, Perez remains determined to prove his worth on the track during the upcoming race. As the Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes will be on Red Bull Racing and the dynamics between Perez and Verstappen as they aim for success in the sport’s elite competition.